Antonio Pappano brings Italy to England

Antonio Pappano is bringing one of the oldest musical institutions in the world to England this week.

As well as being Music Director of the Royal Opera, Covent Garden, the Anglo-Italian Antonio Pappano is also Music Director of the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, founded in 1585.

Pappano is leading the orchestra in a rousing programme that celebrates the 150th anniversary of the Unification of Italy and Rome's connections with the wider world, including works by Verdi, Liszt and Respighi.

Anne-Marie Minhall spoke to Antonio Pappano about the orchestra's latest European tour and the release of its new Rachmaninov disc.

Antonio Pappano and the Accademia will be performing at the Anvil in Basingstoke on 17th March, Manchester on 18th, and then in Birmingham on 19th.